Can STIs Affect My Fertility? Here's What You Need to Know
Understanding potential fertility risks, testing, and treatment options for common sexually transmitted infections.
December 19th, 2025 | 7 min. read
It may not be the sexiest topic, but sexual health is an important piece of the fertility conversation. By understanding the link between sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and fertility, you can better protect yourself and reduce your risk of STI-related infertility.
In this article:
The Evolution of Sexual Health
When it comes to your sexual health, understanding the facts and taking control of your mind, body, and soul can lead to greater satisfaction and confidence.
At its core, sexual health is the ability to embrace and enjoy one’s sexuality throughout a lifetime, and is an important part of our physical and emotional health. So, before we dive in, let's check any shame or blame at the door!
When it comes to having open conversations about sexual health, we’ve come a long way.
Over the years, the definition has expanded to include much more than just the typical high school health class talking points. We now have a more complete understanding that includes nuanced areas like sexual rights, pleasure, and intimacy.
Of course, taking control of your sexual health includes disease prevention and unplanned/planned pregnancies, but it also encompasses the emotional aspect of sexual health. The evolution towards more openness and transparency around this topic shows that we’re taking a more positive, proactive, and respectful approach to sexuality as a society.
STIs vs. STDs: What's the difference?
You've probably heard the term STD, which stands for “sexually transmitted disease.”
However, STI stands for “sexually transmitted infection” and is the most up-to-date term used. Many educators and healthcare providers have switched from STD to STI because “infection” is more accurate and less stigmatizing than “disease.”
The bottom line: No matter which term you choose to use, the most important thing is understanding what to look out for and how to reduce your risk.
Can STIs affect your fertility?
If left untreated, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can often cause health complications and potentially affect fertility. The good news is that the most common STIs are both preventable and treatable.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common STIs, along with how they can impact your fertility and overall sexual health.
What are the most common STIs?
While there are dozens of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the following three are some of the most common ones you should be aware of. If you've had an STI in the past and are concerned about your present or future fertility, ask to have a conversation with your doctor.
1. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STI, with most sexually active people contracting it at some point in their lives. It occurs in both females and males and can cause certain cancers and diseases.
HPV often shows no signs or symptoms, so many people don’t know that they have it. While the body can sometimes fight off the virus on its own, this isn’t always the case.
Potential Infertility Issues
HPV does not generally lead to fertility issues, though it can increase a woman’s risk of cervical cancer. The removal of cancerous or precancerous cells from the cervix is what can affect your fertility.
Prevention Tips
To best prevent HPV, doctors recommend getting the HPV vaccine and encouraging your sexual partner to do the same.
High-risk HPV can usually be easily treated before it turns into cancer, which is why regular pap smears and HPV screening tests are so important. And while condoms and dental dams don’t offer 100% protection, they can certainly help lower your chances of contracting HPV.
Treatment
There is currently no treatment for the virus itself, but treatments are available for side effects that may occur, including genital warts and cervical pre-cancer.
2. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a very common sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It can infect both men and women and is spread easily, especially because it often causes no symptoms.
The good news? Once diagnosed, this STI is easily treatable.
Potential Infertility Issues
If left untreated, chlamydia can cause women to develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can have a detrimental effect on the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes. The associated inflammation can cause scarring and block the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility.
It can also cause ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus) and increases a woman’s risk of becoming infected with HIV.
Prevention Tips
Using condoms and/or dental dams is the best way to protect yourself against chlamydia. Getting regular screenings and avoiding douching, which decreases the number of good vaginal bacteria, is also recommended.
Treatment
Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics. Doxycycline taken for 7 days is typically the preferred treatment, while azithromycin may be used as an alternative in certain situations.
3. Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a common bacterial infection. It can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. In women, gonorrhea can also infect the cervix.
Note: It's important to know that people with gonorrhea often experience no symptoms, which is why frequent STI testing is so critical.
Potential Infertility Issues
If left untreated, gonorrhea can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, resulting in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Due to scarring of the fallopian tubes, PID increases the risk of infertility and pregnancy complications.
Prevention Tips
Getting regular STI screenings, having an open dialogue with your sexual partner(s), and using latex condoms are all recommended to help prevent gonorrhea.
Treatment
Uncomplicated gonorrhea is treated with an injection of ceftriaxone. If chlamydia has not been ruled out, treatment usually also includes doxycycline (taken for 7 days).
How are STIs diagnosed?
It can be tricky for healthcare professionals to diagnose STIs based on symptoms alone (as there sometimes aren't any symptoms at all), so they’ll need to do some tests and exams to find the right diagnosis. Depending on the suspected STI, this may involve:
- A physical exam
- Swabs of bodily fluids
- Performing blood work
What if I’ve had an STI? Am I infertile?
No need to panic! If you have been diagnosed with an STI, it does not automatically mean that you are infertile. First and foremost, pay close attention to your symptoms and head to your gynecologist's office to get tested and discuss your sexual health. Communication is key.
However, it’s always good to know the signs of infertility and when to seek help.
If you’re under 35 and have been trying to conceive for one year with no success (or over 35 and have been trying to conceive for six months with no success), this fits the traditional definition of infertility.
Redefining Infertility
In 2023, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) updated its definition of infertility to be more inclusive, recognizing it as a medical condition based on reproductive history or the need for medical intervention, including individuals and couples who require donor sperm, donor eggs, donor embryos, or gestational surrogacy to build a family.
If you fall into any of these categories, it is recommended that you see a reproductive endocrinologist. If you’re actively trying to conceive, your doctor will help you determine the appropriate path for you, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
If you aren’t ready for a baby yet, you can also discuss options like egg freezing.
Sexual Health, Emotions & Infertility
Talking about STIs likely isn’t getting you in the mood, but we’re here to remind you that sex is intended to be an enjoyable, pleasurable, and healthy experience between you and your partner. So…let’s talk about sex, baby.
It’s no secret that infertility can put a damper on your sex life.
In fact, a study from Stanford University found that 40% of women who were categorized as infertile suffered from sexual problems, causing a great deal of physical and emotional distress.
Don't be afraid to reach out to your doctor or other providers for support and resources.
When Sex Becomes a Chore
Emotions play a huge role in sexual health, and if you're undergoing fertility treatment, you’re likely experiencing increased psychological and physical demands that can take a toll on your relationship and sex life.
When sex becomes associated with conception, it can bring up feelings of disappointment, stress, and even resentment. If you're experiencing any of those emotions, know you're not alone. Remember that support is available for both you and your partner at any time.
Illume Fertility offers services like acupuncture, counseling, yoga, and nutrition to help reduce stress, boost connection, enhance overall wellbeing, and better manage your fertility journey.
Your Sexual Health Matters
Most importantly, we’re here to remind you that knowledge is power, and that taking care of your sexual health shouldn’t be a scary thing. Let's get informed together, reduce the stigma surrounding sexual health, and create a healthier world for all.
Dr. Cynthia Murdock is a staff physician and a fertility specialist at Illume Fertility. She is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.